Grünsee

Grünsee is a small alpine lake above Zermatt in the Swiss canton of Valais, sitting at roughly 2,300 m. It is one of the five lakes on the 5-Seenweg, the well-known walking route beneath the Matterhorn.

Where is Grünsee and what makes it special?

The lake lies on the slopes above the village, in the area hikers know from walks towards Findeln and Fluhalp. The path here crosses a former glacial landscape of moraine, meadows and scattered larches, with the Matterhorn in view. Grünsee makes a natural rest stop midway through the walk, and benches along the trail invite a longer break.

How do you get to Grünsee?

Most people start with the Sunnegga funicular. The ride from Zermatt to Sunnegga station (2,288 m) takes about 4 minutes. From there you can walk, or continue by gondola to Blauherd (2,571 m) and hike back down.

The usual route from Blauherd runs past Stellisee, Grindjisee, Grünsee, Moosjisee and Leisee. Hiking portals list the full walk to Sunnegga at about 9 km and 2.5 hours, with around 400 m of climbing and 700 m of descent, rated medium difficulty. After Grindjisee (2,324 m) the path swings across the valley to reach Grünsee.

What else is nearby?

• Stellisee and the mountain restaurant Fluhalp (2,606 m), which also offers summer overnight stays.
• Grindjisee (2,324 m), the neighbouring lake on the trail.
• Moosjisee and Leisee (2,232 m), the next two stops on the route.
• The hamlet of Findeln, about 15 minutes' walk below Sunnegga, with inns on the path.
• A view down onto the Findel Glacier, from a short climb above Fluhalp.

When should you go?

The trail is walkable in summer and early autumn, once the snow has gone. Matterhorn views are clearest under a cloudless sky, usually in the morning. Check lift timetables and the forecast before you set out, since operating hours change with the season.

Can you swim in Grünsee?

Yes, but the water is very cold. It suits a warm, sunny day and a brave swimmer.

Frequently asked questions

How do I reach Grünsee from Zermatt? Take the Sunnegga funicular, then walk or ride the gondola to Blauherd and follow the 5-Seenweg down.

How long does the five-lake walk take? About 2.5 hours from Blauherd to Sunnegga, not counting stops.

Is this the same Grünsee as the ones in Bavaria or South Tyrol? No. The name is common, but this lake is in Valais, in the Swiss municipality of Zermatt.

Is the trail difficult? It is medium difficulty. Hiking shoes are enough, and most of the route is downhill.

Where can I eat on the way? Fluhalp has a mountain restaurant, and there are inns in Findeln.